SUPPORTING JOE MUNISTERI— HELP AN RBAF MEMBER BEAT COLON CANCER

By Kami-Leigh Agard

Three weeks ago, our dear friend, Rockaway Beach Autism Families board member, Joe Munisteri, otherwise known as “Joe Butterfly,” at just 35 years old was diagnosed with colon cancer. For those of you who have crossed paths with Joe, know that he is an extraordinary human being. He is on the autism spectrum, and also, passionately works as a direct support professional (DSP) for individuals with autism. In addition, utilizing his background in Peer Supports, he works as a mentor for individuals facing mental health challenges.

At heart, Joe is an artist, who created his own galactic card game, “Butterfly Space Rescue.” He is also an author of multiple Kindle books, such as “Pantheon Of Poetry: Poems about Cryptozoology, Mythology, and Folklore” and “Butterflies in Space!” And, this past October, he was a panelist at New York Comic Con, speaking on two panels about cosplay and content creation for people with disabilities.

So, there’s much more I can list about Joe’s accomplishments as a young man on the autism spectrum, but in a nutshell, Joe is an autistic superhero, adorned with the wings of a butterfly. He has overcome numerous challenges, despite his autism diagnosis.

Joe independently rents an apartment with his longtime girlfriend, Nancy, owns and drives a vehicle and has a full-time job.

However, now he is facing a formidable opponent—COLON CANCER.

In the past year, Joe also lost his lower back teeth, making eating much more difficult; affecting his confidence and mental health.

Now, Joe is unable to work. He does not get short term disability benefits, and has been stuck in the application process for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) for over two years.

SSDI is a lengthy process and difficult to get approval. Most of Joe’s medical expenses are not covered as he only has straight Medicaid, thus limited with healthcare coverage. Plus, with the everyday necessities of life and not being able to make an income, Joe direly needs our help.

So, we’re starting a GoFundMe to help him through his battle. Funds raised will go into Joe’s ABLE (Achieving a Better Life Experience) savings account and “Special Needs Trust.” These special accounts will ensure that Joe does not lose his Medicaid or SSDI eligibility. Funds will only be used for qualifying disability related expenses, which can include Health & Wellness, Housing, Education, Transportation, and Employment Supports to improve his independence and quality of life.

Anything you can donate will be truly appreciated. Also, please pray and surround Joe and his family with your love so he can beat this thing.

Please spread the word. For more info on how to donate directly to Joe Munisteri’s GoFundMe, visit: Rockaway Beach Autism Families on Facebook or Instagram.

Also, this Sunday, February 1, Rockaway Beach Autism Families will be tabling at 7th Inning Stretch Queens Culture Clash, a collectibles event for pop culture enthusiasts happening at Knights of Columbus (333 Beach 90th Street). From 35 plus vendor tables with sports cards, comics, Pokémon, Funko, vintage toys, autographs and more—come on down. Food available for sale by Happy Jack’s Corner. Admission: $3. Kids 13 and under are free. Proceeds from the  50/50 raffle go toward Rockaway Beach Autism Families’ programming for Autism Awareness Month in April.